What Does an Assistant Project Manager Do? (And How to Become One)

An assistant project manager coordinates projects and reports to the project manager. Assistant project managers often use this position to gain experience and proficiency in the industry so they can become project managers in the future. 

Learn more about what assistant project managers do. Afterward, if you're interested in exploring this career, consider enrolling in the Google Project Management Professional Certificate, where you'll gain an immersive understanding of the practices and skills needed to succeed in an entry-level project management role.

What is an assistant project manager?

An assistant project manager's job is to ensure the project runs smoothly from start to finish. They plan and execute every step of the project, collaborating with the project manager or other team members assigned to it. 

Assistant project managers usually perform administrative duties, such as organizing and maintaining the project documents, updating the digital database, and helping to manage the project’s budget, along with basic duties, such as setting up phone calls, meetings, and site visits. They also coordinate with team members about the project details and work with vendors, clients, and employees to determine and meet project expectations.

What does an assistant project manager do?

While the roles and responsibilities of an assistant project manager depend on the company, some basic duties are usually expected. The main goal of an assistant project manager is to contribute to the planning and execution of a project. Other common responsibilities include:

• Performing administrative tasks as required, including preparing estimates and invoices and keeping track of the project’s progress, usually with the help of specific software

• Reporting to the project manager on the project’s progress through all stages 

• Supporting team members by researching project information

• Updating and reporting on the project’s schedule, progress, budget, and spending 

• Collaborating with stakeholders about their needs and goals for the project

Assistant project manager work environment

Assistant project managers can work in a number of industries as well as large companies and agencies. Some common industries include health care, construction, and marketing. Some assistant project managers will shadow an experienced product manager to gain experience. Some work alone, and others work alongside a team.

Assistant project manager skills

Excellent organizational skills are required to become an assistant project manager. Updating and tracking the budget and planning are some of the key duties of the role. Organization is also imperative in this role because assistant project managers may work on several projects at once. 

Other essential skills include:

• Communication: Because teams from different departments may be working together, it is important to provide concise instructions to each person involved so they understand their required expectations. You may also work with vendors and suppliers, so it is important to communicate with them effectively.

• Leadership: Strong leadership skills are important for motivating and leading the team toward project completion. They can also help you delegate responsibilities to the appropriate teams.

• Experience in management software: No matter what field you are in, it's important to have knowledge of the specific software you'll be working with. This means it will be helpful if you are proficient in Microsoft Suite or other management software programs before getting the job.

Assistant project managers: salary and job outlook

The average base salary for an assistant project manager is $73,568, according to Glassdoor [1]. You may be able to make more money if your project includes a bonus, commission, profit sharing, and overtime. Glassdoor reports an average of $11,270 in this additional pay, potentially bringing our average total pay to $84,838 as an assistant project manager [1]. 

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 7 percent job growth rate for project management specialists from 2023 to 2033, a role closely related to assistant project managers [2]. Additionally, the Project Management Institute (PMI) reports that 2.3 million project management-related jobs will need to be filled every year through 2030 to keep pace with demand [3].

How to become an assistant project manager

Assistant project manager jobs usually require earning a bachelor’s degree, gaining experience working in a project management environment, possessing skills that help you oversee projects from start to finish, and earning additional training or certificates that will improve your resume. Experience in this role, such as working on other assistant project manager jobs, can prove beneficial in furthering your career into a higher project management position.

1. Earn your degree.

The educational requirements to become an assistant project manager vary depending on what qualifications a company is looking for in an employee. While it's possible to get hired without a college degree, you may need one as you advance in your career. According to Zippia, 68.4 percent of assistant project managers have a bachelor's degree [4].

2. Gain experience.

Gaining experience in an entry-level job, such as an administrative assistant, will help you learn and grow your management skills. It will be a bonus if the job is in the industry you have an interest in working for as an assistant project manager.

An internship can also help you gain experience so you can learn what the role entails, as well as the ability to watch and learn from the project manager. 

3. Build key skills.

Build or strengthen key project management skills. These can include interpersonal skills for interacting with team members, vendors, stakeholders, and others involved in the project from start to finish, as well as technical skills, such as familiarity with project management tools.  

4. Consider certifications or training.

A certification or training in project management, such as CAPM, can be a great way to show employers your commitment to the job. There are different entry-level project management certifications to consider depending on your goals.  

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